Sexual Abuse and Assault

A child is sexually abused when they are forced or persuaded to take part in sexual activities. This doesn't have to be physical contact and it can happen online. Sometimes the child won't understand that what's happening to them is abuse. They may not even understand that it's wrong.

Sexual abuse and sexual assault can have a devastating and long-term impact on a child and young personís physical and mental health and well-being. It may be very difficult for a child or young person to talk about what is happening to them and they may not know how to.